QUICK-START GUIDE

Step 1: Open tripod....and tighten lock ring.

Step 2: Loosen vertical lock to move optical tube.

Step 3: Attach telescope to tripod base using mounting bolts.

Steps 4 and 6: Insert eyepiece and focus telescope.

Setting up the Tripod

1.Open the tripod: Remove the tripod from the giftbox and stand vertically. Gently pull the legs apart to a fully open position. Turn the center tripod lock knob to secure and stabilize the tripod. Tighten to a firm feel.

Caution: Make sure you loosen the tripod lock knob before collapsing the tripod at the end of your viewing session.

2.Loosen the vertical lock and move the optical tube down- ward. Then, re-tighten the vertical lock.

3.Attach the telescope to the tripod: Line up the mounting holes on the telescope with the mounting holes on the base. Reach underneath and thread the mount- ing bolt through the tripod base and into the telescope base. Tighten to a firm feel only, do not overtighten.

Note: If you wish to attach the accessory tray to the tripod, see page 13 for more information. It is not necessary to attach the tray for the quick start procedure.

4.Insert the eyepiece: Remove the supplied 25mm eye- piece from its container and slide it into the eyepiece holder. Tighten the thumbscrews to a firm feel only.

5.Remove the dust cover from the end of optical tube assembly.

6.Use the focus knob to bring objects into focus. Your tel- escope has a very precise focus control. You may need to turn the focus knob 20 to 40 turns to focus your telescope for the first time.

Always start observing using a low power eyepiece (such as a 25mm or 26mm eyepiece) to get a nice wide field of view. Later on you can change to high power, if so desired. But high powered eyepieces have a much nar- rower field of view and it’s more difficult to locate objects using high powered eyepieces.

Connect the AutoStar Handbox

7.Lift the battery cover. Gently remove the battery holder from the compartment so you don’t accidentally pull out the wires attached to the holder. Insert 6 user-supplied “AA” batteries in the holder. Refer to the diagram on the holder to orient the batteries properly. Replace the holder back into the battery compartment and replace the lid.

8.Make sure that the computer control panel power switch is in the OFF position. Remove AutoStar from the packing materials and plug it into the HBX port.

Flip the Power Switch on the computer control panel to the ON position. The copyright message lights on AutoStar’s LCD display.

9.Press the key prompted by AutoStar to accept the Sun warning.

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Meade ETX-80AT-TC instruction manual QUICK-START Guide, Setting up the Tripod
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ETX-80AT-TC specifications

The Meade ETX-80AT-TC is a sophisticated yet user-friendly telescope that caters to both novice astronomers and seasoned stargazers. This compact telescope is particularly praised for its portability, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to explore the night sky without the burden of heavy equipment.

One of the standout features of the ETX-80AT-TC is its 80mm aperture, which delivers impressive light-gathering capabilities. This allows users to observe a wide range of celestial objects, from the craters on the Moon to distant galaxies. The telescope’s Achromatic refractor design minimizes chromatic aberration, ensuring sharp and clear images across the field of view.

The Meade ETX-80AT-TC is equipped with the AutoStar computer control system, which enhances the observational experience significantly. This technology allows users to locate and track thousands of celestial objects with ease. With a simple push of a button, the telescope can automatically find and track planets, stars, and deep-sky objects, making it perfect for those who are new to astronomy and may find manual navigation challenging.

Additionally, the telescope features a built-in Solar System tour that animates a journey through the solar system, providing educational insights about the celestial bodies in our neighborhood. It is operated via a user-friendly handheld controller with a numeric keypad and an LCD display, making navigation intuitive even for beginners.

The ETX-80AT-TC also includes a durable and lightweight design, with an integrated tabletop tripod for stable viewing. It can be easily set up and taken down, allowing for spontaneous stargazing adventures. The telescope is compatible with various Meade accessories, including additional eyepieces and filters, which further enhance the observing experience.

In terms of mechanics, the ETX-80AT-TC boasts smooth, slow-motion manual controls for fine adjustments and a flip mirror for easy switching between visual and photographic modes. Whether capturing breathtaking astrophotos or enjoying the stars visually, this telescope delivers versatility and quality.

Overall, the Meade ETX-80AT-TC stands out with its thoughtful combination of features, technology, and portability, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the night sky. Whether you are a budding astronomer or a more experienced enthusiast, this telescope provides ample opportunities for wonder and discovery under the stars.
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